Created by
Gary B. Rollman,
Emeritus Professor of Psychology,
University of Western Ontario
(In addition to links below, see weekly archives in the right column)

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

International Association for the Study of Pain | Global Year Against Musculoskeletal Pain

I am pleased to announce the 2009–2010 Global Year Against Musculoskeletal Pain. This IASP-sponsored campaign will draw attention to the disabling pain experienced by people around the world suffering from musculoskeletal disorders. Built around the theme of "When Moving Hurts: Assess, Understand, Take Action," this vital initiative calls upon each of us to provide a voice to those with musculoskeletal pain by:

Educating pain researchers as well as health care professionals globally who see the issues associated with musculoskeletal pain first-hand in their interactions with patients.

Increasing awareness of musculoskeletal pain among government officials, members of the media, and the general public worldwide.

Encouraging government leaders, research institutions, and other key decision-makers to support more research, thus producing more effective and accessible treatment methods and outcomes for people with musculoskeletal pain.

Throughout the campaign, which will run through late October 2010, IASP's members and chapters will organize meetings, symposia, patient-education events, publications, and many other efforts exploring different aspects of musculoskeletal pain. In addition, IASP and its chapters will sponsor media efforts highlighting some of the challenges posed by musculoskeletal pain.

I encourage you to get involved in any such activities planned in your area. Whether you help to plan and organize an event, deliver a talk related to musculoskeletal pain, or attend a meeting to show your support, your participation is essential to the success of the Global Year Against Musculoskeletal Pain. Please contact your local IASP chapter, or the IASP secretariat office at iaspdesk@iasp-pain.org, for more information on scheduled activities in your area and other ways to get involved.

Be sure to visit the Global Year web pages regularly, where you will find a series of Fact Sheets focusing on more than 20 topics related to musculoskeletal pain—furnished in English, Arabic, Chinese, French, Spanish, and other languages. The fact sheets, campaign posters, and other resources are available to all at no cost. You can also register to receive Global Year Updates (via email) with the latest news and campaign resources.